World Music Festivals

Milwaukee Irish Fest, renowned as the world's largest Irish culture festival, was established by members of Milwaukee's Irish community to showcase its rich Irish heritage. Under the direction of Ed Ward, Irish Fest premiered in Milwaukee, the city of festivals, in 1981. Irish Fest showcases Irish music, history, dance, drama, sports and culture. The festival features Irish and Irish American talent, and serves as a stage for up-and-coming local performers. Located on Milwaukee's beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, Irish Fest is held annually during the third weekend of August. During its four-day run, the event annually hosts over 100,000 guests from around the globe.